I am 3 months post treatment from nasopharengeal carcinoma. It was stage 3 because it spread to both sides of my neck into the lymph nodes. The mass on the right side of my neck was very large but after chemo, then radiation and chemo (33 treatments of rad) the primary tumor in my nasopharynx is gone but a PET scan revealed a lymph node with a 4.4 uptake in my neck where the large mass was. My oncolologist and radiologist suggest removal of the lymph nodes in that area because they do not trust a needle biopsy because they are known to give false negatives . My ENT suggests a needle biopsy and to monitor the lymph nodes in that area with a sonogram. My next PET scan is scheduled for 12/11/2014. Should I get the surgery or have the needle biopsy. I am worried about a false negative but at the same time neck surgery isn t something that is routine or easy and comes with a lot of risks. I appreciate any advice.
hi... my advice is to undergo a neck dissection if PETCT showed an uptake of 4.4 in the previous gross nodal disease region.. as a surgical oncologist i can tell that neck dissection is not a morbid procedure...yes, i accept post radiotherapy there may be healing issues but overall its safer and best way to control neck residual or recurrent disease.. please follow the advice of your oncologist..
I find this answer helpful
You found this answer helpful
Note: For further queries related to kidney problems Click here.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
We use cookies in order to offer you most relevant experience and using this website you acknowledge that you have already read and understood our
Privacy Policy
Suggest Treatment For Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
hi... my advice is to undergo a neck dissection if PETCT showed an uptake of 4.4 in the previous gross nodal disease region.. as a surgical oncologist i can tell that neck dissection is not a morbid procedure...yes, i accept post radiotherapy there may be healing issues but overall its safer and best way to control neck residual or recurrent disease.. please follow the advice of your oncologist..